Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Cyprus, sending a message to Turkey and strengthening regional cooperation. This is the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Cyprus since 2002, and he is accompanied by a large delegation. Cyprus plays a significant role as part of the energy corridor connecting India to Europe. Modi's visit is also politically and commercially important, as Cyprus is set to take over the EU Presidency in 2026.
A large fire broke out on Monday night in Zakaki, Limassol. The fire is burning piles of dry grass and trimmings. Strong firefighting forces have rushed to the scene to extinguish it. More information will follow.
Two climbers were attacked by a bear while visiting an old fighter plane in the Frakto forest. One of the men fell into a 1,000-meter deep gorge during their escape, while the other took refuge in a tree for protection. The Fire Department and volunteers are mobilized for their rescue. Rescuers hope to reach the site before nightfall.
Supporters of Bishop Tychikos are directing ten questions to Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus regarding the recent conviction of Tychikos. They argue that the Archbishop did not ensure his impartiality during the verdict. They question whether the Archbishop's approach honors the Church and express their doubts about the legal process. They hope for specific and substantiated answers from the Archbishop.
The Madleen ship was seized by Israeli forces on Monday. The 12 activists on board will be deported to their home countries, while the Israeli representative questioned the humanitarian nature of the mission. Turkey condemned the ship's seizure, and the French president called for the return of French citizens involved in the mission. The activists are held in separate cells with imposed restrictions.
The return of holidaymakers after Kataklysmos has begun, resulting in increased traffic in various areas. Specifically, congestion is noted on the highways of Ayia Napa – Larnaca, Larnaca – Nicosia, and Limassol – Nicosia. The police are controlling traffic at critical points and advise drivers to be cautious. Drivers are encouraged to adhere to traffic rules and follow the directives of on-duty officers.
Some refugee families are complaining about delays in their compensation from the government after deciding not to participate in the kτιΖΩ project. They handed in the keys to their apartments in June 2023 but have not received any compensation. Facing chaos during the procedures, refugees are forced to visit various agencies without results. The chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Refugees expressed concern about the ongoing plight of refugees.
In Cyprus, over 50% of electricity demand is covered by solar systems during peak hours. The TSO had to disconnect solar sources due to low demand. The Parliament is discussing new electricity pricing, with a proposed increase of 3%. Consumers may notice slight increases in their bills.
The self-proclaimed state is set to announce its Marine Spatial Planning Map in response to Greece's planned marine parks for the United Nations. The Turkish newspaper Yeni Şafak reports that Greece aims to create a new area of sovereignty in the Southern Aegean. The announcement of the map by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus will aim to resist unilateral actions by the Greek side. This situation highlights the increasing tension over maritime claims in the region.
President Nikos Christodoulides met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in Nice during the Oceans Conference. They discussed developments concerning the upcoming expanded conference on Cyprus. Both expressed their willingness for a successful outcome of the negotiations. Guterres also informed about the contacts made by his envoy in Turkey.
During the Nations League final, a football fan tragically died after falling from the stands at the Allianz Arena. The incident occurred during extra time of the match between Portugal and Spain. This has shocked fans and sparked a public discussion about safety in stadiums.
The political landscape in Cyprus is shifting under the growing influence of the far-right. Traditional parties are facing challenges as they lose voters to ELAM. There is increasing discussion about potential ties between the Presidency and ELAM, while internal challenges within the parties shape the political environment. These developments may lead to significant upheavals in the upcoming elections.
Priest Dimos Serkelidis appeared unrepentant in the Ecclesiastical Court, attacking the members of the Holy Synod, including Archbishop Georgios. Despite being asked about memorializing individuals during the divine liturgy, he refused to accept any responsibility. The Court imposed a six-month suspension and prohibited him from serving in the Paphos Diocese. Serkelidis publicly expresses his accusations against the Archbishop, questioning the procedures of the verdict.
The executive and legislative branches are looking for a date to discuss the issue of multiple pensions for state officials. The Minister of Finance has invited members of the Parliament for preliminary discussions on the proposed laws. However, delays in the process have caused concern and discomfort among some members of the Finance Committee. The situation is expected to clarify in the coming days.
A new study from the University of Cyprus reveals that quarries are not just industrial zones, but important habitats rich in biodiversity. Researchers identified rare and endemic plant and animal species in several quarries across Cyprus. The study highlights the potential for coexistence of productive activities and nature conservation. The findings provide valuable data for sustainable practices in the quarrying industry.
A study by Grant Thornton highlights the negative impacts of Larnaca International Airport, which outweigh its benefits. The municipalities of Larnaca and Dromolaxia-Menei are seeking compensatory measures to address social and environmental challenges. They proposed the establishment of a fund to finance infrastructure projects, but have not yet received a response. Air pollution in the area has exceeded international limits, requiring immediate mitigation measures.
In Cyprus, the Anti-Corruption Authority lacks complete financial and operational independence, as it is funded by the state budget and its staff is appointed by the Public Service. Similar situations are seen in other European countries, while countries like Bulgaria, Greece, and Italy maintain that independence. Anonymous reporting of corruption is possible in Cyprus, as well as in many other EU countries. Overall, the mechanisms to combat corruption exhibit various forms across countries.
Inflation remains high despite a recent decrease in rates. Over the past five years, food prices have significantly risen, with an average increase of 19.7%. The price of potatoes and olive oil has seen staggering hikes of over 76% and 54%, respectively. Consumers continue to be cautious due to ongoing price increases.